Animal Farm
By: George Orwell
Animal Farm is not only an all time classic, but a must read for all ages. Its timeless theme of selfishness reminds us that only focusing on yourself will get you no where. This book is a unique twist where animals talk and it keeps you coming back from cover to cover.
The historical symbolism in the story represents the events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the Stalin era in the former Soviet Union. Joseph Stalin was the dictator of Russia and is represented by Napoleon in the book. You are constantly wondering which characters are on Napoleon's side and which are secretly in alliance with Snowball (a pig who represents Leon Trotsky who led the opposition against Stalin).
Although this book is based on historical events, it is all but boring to read. The more I explore the characters and learn more about the evil ways of Napoleon, the more I look forward to opening the book again.
Quotes:
"Four legs good, two legs bad." -Pg. 34
"'I have no wish to take life, not even human life,' repeated Boxer, and his eyes were full of tears." -Pg. 43